Building Bridges - Education and Neuroscience - Speaking a Common Language for the Benefit of Learning

Editorial

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62695/OXID9595

Abstract

The Symposium 2022 of the Institute for Education focused on “The Neuroscience of Learning”. It is a known fact that the brain and learning have an intimate link and when learning happens, the brain undergoes a change which can be chemical and structural. The papers presented here provide a remarkable insight into the area of neuroscience and create a connection with learning or the disposition of the individual to learn. The affective domain is placed at the forefront of the studies, highlighting the effect it has on the development of the child and the outcomes of the educational journey. Though brain research and its relation to learning is still in its early stages, it is imperative that we continue to delve into this field to investigate the processes that can be adopted to create a positive educational journey. It is through the collaboration between neuroscientists and educators that the pathway towards the development of a person’s full potential can be achieved. However, language can be a major barrier, considering the jargon used when communicating methodologies, analyses, and findings. Thus, bridging the language can be considered the initial factor that may result in translating the scientific findings of neuroscientists into personalised strategies used in the classroom and in the community to overcome learning hindrances and exploit the brain’s potential.

Author Biography

Joanne Rita Grima, Institute for Education

Joanne Grima has been the Chief Executive Officer of the Institute for Education since founding it in 2015. She leads an ambitious and energetic team that develops qualifications and continuing professional development for educators while providing a platform for research. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Education from the University of Malta and taught Chemistry in the secondary sector for ten years. In 2009 she moved to Higher Education to teach Environmental Science. She has read for a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, Administration and Management and for a Master’s degree in Education (Science). Joanne was an Education Officer – Assessment for Learning and developed a teacher-training programme to implement this pedagogy. This was then transformed into a Postgraduate Certificate in Assessment for Learning Strategies, which is currently being offered to teachers. She also developed the Core Curriculum Programme for learners that require alternative learning and assessment programmes. She also served as Assistant Director – Assessment within the Curriculum Department.

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Published

14-09-2022

How to Cite

Grima, J. R. (2022). Building Bridges - Education and Neuroscience - Speaking a Common Language for the Benefit of Learning: Editorial. Malta Journal of Education, 3(1), 5–14. https://doi.org/10.62695/OXID9595